Bear Necessities New Student Orientation

Bear Necessities New Student Orientation (NSO)

Bear Necessities New Student Orientation
Welcome, "New Morganites!"

We are excited to provide you with all the details for the Bear Necessities New Student Orientation (NSO) for incoming Fall 2026 freshmen! This orientation is mandatory for all incoming freshmen (except CASA and transfer students).

The Bear Necessities New Student Orientation provides an opportunity for incoming freshmen to gain information on MSU colleges and schools, financial aid (including FAFSA), Math placement testing, academic advisement, peer mentorship, and student experience!

Additionally, students participate in workshops outlining college transition, MSU History, study skills, and time management strategies. Participation in this program provides activities and interactions with faculty, professional staff, and classmates. Our goal is to provide an early opportunity for incoming freshmen to become familiar with their university resources, making them fully prepared for their college journey.

The Bear Necessities NSO is a three-day, two-night in-person experience (virtual option available). You will have the opportunity to select one of the following in-person or virtual sessions:

In-Person Sessions

3-day, 2-night

• June 16 - 18, 2026 (Tues. - Thurs.)  | NSO Session is Full to Capacity
• June 23 - 25, 2026 (Tues. - Thurs.) | NSO Session is Full to Capacity
• June 29 - July 1, 2026 (Mon. - Wed.) | NSO Session is Full to Capacity
• July 7 - 9, 2026 (Tues. - Thurs.)| NSO Session is Full to Capacity
• July 13 - 15, 2026 (Mon. - Wed.) | NSO Session is Full to Capacity
• July 17 - 19, 2026 (Fri. - Sun.)  - NSO Session is Full to Capacity

All Bear Necessities NSO In-Person Sessions are Full for the 2026 Summer! Our all Virtual NSO Sessions are still open for registration.

Virtual Sessions 

1-day

Virtual sessions are determined based on major and academic advisor. Students will receive information about their virtual session via their Morgan email by June 1. 

Both in-person and virtual sessions require the non-refundable $350 NSO Registration Fee. Students will only attend one (1) NSO session. NSO sessions are first come, first serve. All in-person sessions will reach capacity by the summer. 

Fall 2026 Bear Necessities NSO registration is closed!

Please contact apply@morgan.edu if you missed the deadline and would like to join us in the future. 

How to Register for Bear Necessities NSO

1. Pay $350 Bear Necessities NSO Fee (non-refundable):
   You will need your official Morgan State email. Use the link below to sign in to CampusESP, and register for New Student Orientation. 
2. Complete Pre-NSO Requirements:
   After your Bear Necessities NSO registration has been confirmed, you will receive a list of Pre-NSO requirements (ALEKS Placement Exam|NSO Modules) to complete before attending your NSO session.

Click on this link for detailed instructions with images on how to register for Bear Necessities NSO.

If you are unhoused, a ward of the state, or legally emancipated, please email bearnso@morgan.edu for alternative instructions.